Wirelessly Powered Electronic Display Apparatuses

ABSTRACT

A wirelessly powered electronic display apparatus and techniques for dynamically controlling the apparatus are described herein. More specifically, the electronic display apparatus is configured identify proximate users and automatically present communications to the proximate users in a wireless power delivery environment. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a housing, an electronic display disposed on the housing, one or more antennas situated within the housing and electronic circuitry situated within the housing. The electronic display is configured to present display data to proximate users in the wireless power delivery environment. The one or more antennas are configured to wirelessly receive power and data signals. The electronic circuitry is configured to harvest energy from the power signals, process the data signals to determine the display data for presentation to the proximate users, and direct the electronic display to present the display data to the proximate users.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/945,783 titled “WIRELESSLY POWERED ELECTRONIC DISPLAY APPARATUSES”filed on Nov. 19, 2015, now allowed; which claims priority to andbenefit from U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/146,233 titled“SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR WIRELESS CHARGING” filed on Apr. 10, 2015,which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Location determination systems, such as the global positioning system(GPS), have provided the ability to identify and track locations andmovement of devices. Although fairly accurate outdoors, many locationdetermination systems cannot detect when a device is indoors. Solutionshave been proposed for locating devices indoors involving beacons,transponders, and/powerlines. However, these systems can only locate thedevices themselves rather than other objects within the system.Furthermore, these system serve no other purpose than to track devices.

Accordingly, a need exists for technology that overcomes the problemdemonstrated above, as well as one that provides additional benefits.The examples provided herein of some prior or related systems and theirassociated limitations are intended to be illustrative and notexclusive. Other limitations of existing or prior systems will becomeapparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the followingDetailed Description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

One or more embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by wayof example and not limitation in the figures of the accompanyingdrawings, in which like references indicate similar elements.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example wireless powerdelivery environment depicting wireless power delivery from one or morewireless chargers to various wireless devices within the wireless powerdelivery environment.

FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram illustrating example operations between awireless charger and a wireless receiver device for commencing wirelesspower delivery, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating example components of a wirelesspower transmitter (charger) in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating example components of a wirelesspower receiver (client) in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example wireless power distribution(or delivery) environment including a processing system configured to,among other features, generate a three-dimensional (3D) image (orhologram) of static or semi-static objects in the wireless powerdistribution environment 500.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example timeline indicating phasesof the techniques described herein for imaging wireless power deliveryenvironments and tracking objects therein.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are data flow diagrams illustrating an example processfor generating a 3D image (or hologram) of the wireless power deliveryenvironment, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 8 is a data flow diagram illustrating an example process fortracking objects in a wireless power delivery environment, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a wireless power distribution (ordelivery) environment in the form of an example distributed retailenvironment, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates a 2D representation of an example 3D image (orhologram) of a retail environment, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example display rack, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating example components of anelectronic display, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 13 is diagram illustrating an example heat (or dwell map),according to some embodiments.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example flow map, according to someembodiments.

FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate various examples of graphical user interfacesthat can be displayed to a customer via an electronic display (or pricetag) when the customer is near or proximate to the electronic display,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 16 depicts a block diagram illustrating example components of arepresentative mobile device or tablet computer with a wireless powerreceiver or client in the form of a mobile (or smart) phone or tabletcomputer device, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 17 depicts a diagrammatic representation of a machine, in theexample form, of a computer system within which a set of instructions,for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologiesdiscussed herein, may be executed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A wirelessly powered electronic display apparatus and techniques fordynamically controlling the apparatus are described herein. Morespecifically, the electronic display apparatus is configured identifyproximate users and automatically present communications to theproximate users in a wireless power delivery environment. In someembodiments, the apparatus comprises a housing, an electronic displaydisposed on the housing, one or more antennas situated within thehousing and electronic circuitry situated within the housing. Theelectronic display is configured to present display data to proximateusers in the wireless power delivery environment. The one or moreantennas are configured to wirelessly receive power and data signals.The electronic circuitry is configured to harvest energy from the powersignals, process the data signals to determine the display data forpresentation to the proximate users, and direct the electronic displayto present the display data to the proximate users.

In some embodiments, the wirelessly powered electronic display apparatusis configured to identify a particular user that is proximate to theelectronic display apparatus. The proximity of the user can bedetermined in a number of ways. For example, the wirelessly poweredelectronic display apparatus can determine proximity using a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag embedded in, for example a loyaltycard and/or via a client identifier embedded in a power receiver clientof a mobile device associated with the particular user.

In some embodiments, the electronic display apparatus can providedirected communications to an identified user, access the particularuser's purchase history, and/or direct the electronic display to presentthe particular user's purchase to the particular user.

In some embodiments, the electronic display apparatus can determine,access, and/or otherwise provide or present purchase recommendations forthe particular user. The purchase recommendations can be generated basedon one or more of the user's purchase history, items currently in theparticular users electronic basket, and preferences of the particularuser, etc.

In some embodiments, the electronic display apparatus can facilitatepayment processing functionality and or generate a listing of the items(e.g., scan the items). For example, a QR code can be provided tofacilitate generation of a list of items to purchase or to otherwisefacilitate payment via a mobile device. The electronic display apparatuscan alternatively or additionally include a near field communication(NFC) transponder to facilitate payment via a wireless electronic deviceor other device.

In some embodiments, the electronic display apparatus is configured todetermine aggregate behavior of users or pattern detection within aretail environment such as, for example, heat maps or flow maps asdiscussed herein. The aggregate behavior or patterns can be used tomodify communications displayed to users. For instance, the behaviorand/or pattern information can be used to generate communicationsindicating demand-based pricing information, etc.

The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not tobe construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certaininstances, well-known or conventional details are not described in orderto avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodimentin the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are, references tothe same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of theembodiments.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment”means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” invarious places in the specification are not necessarily all referring tothe same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodimentsmutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features aredescribed which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirementsfor some embodiments but no other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinarymeanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in thespecific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used todescribe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in thespecification, to provide additional guidance to the practitionerregarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certainterms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotationmarks. The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaningof a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the samecontext, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be appreciated thatsame thing can be said in more than one way.

Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any oneor more of the terms discussed herein, nor is any special significanceto be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussedherein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one ormore synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use ofexamples anywhere in this specification, including examples of any termsdiscussed herein, is illustrative only, and is not intended to furtherlimit the scope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplifiedterm. Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodimentsgiven in this specification.

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples ofinstruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according tothe embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note thattitles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of areader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unlessotherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein havethe same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in theart to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, thepresent document, including definitions, will control.

Any headings provided herein are for convenience only and do notnecessarily affect the scope or meaning of the claimed invention.

I. Wireless Charging System Overview/Architecture

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example wireless power deliveryenvironment 100 depicting wireless power delivery from one or morewireless chargers 101 to various wireless devices 102 within thewireless power delivery environment. More specifically, FIG. 1illustrates an example wireless power delivery environment 100 in whichwireless power and/or data can be delivered to available wirelessdevices 102.1-102.n having one or more power receiver clients103.1-103.n (also referred to herein as “wireless power receivers” or“wireless power clients”). The wireless power receivers are configuredto receive wireless power from one or more wireless chargers 101.

As shown in the example of FIG. 1, the wireless devices 102.1-102.n aremobile phone devices 102.2 and 102.n, respectively, and a wireless gamecontroller 102.1, although the wireless devices 102.1-102.n can be any(smart or dumb) wireless device or system that needs power and iscapable of receiving wireless power via one or more integrated powerreceiver clients 103.1-103.n. As discussed herein, the one or moreintegrated power receiver clients or “wireless power receivers” receiveand process power from one or more transmitters/chargers 101.a-101.n andprovide the power to the wireless devices 102.1-102.n for operationthereof.

Each charger 101 (also referred to herein as a “transmitter”, “array ofantennas” or “antenna array system”) can include multiple antennas 104,e.g., an antenna array including hundreds or thousands of antennas,which are capable of delivering wireless power to wireless devices 102.In some embodiments, the antennas are adaptively-phased radio frequencyantennas. The charger 101 is capable of determining the appropriatephases to deliver a coherent power transmission signal to the powerreceiver clients 103. The array is configured to emit a signal (e.g.,continuous wave or pulsed power transmission signal) from multipleantennas at a specific phase relative to each other. It is appreciatedthat use of the term “array” does not necessarily limit the antennaarray to any specific array structure. That is, the antenna array doesnot need to be structured in a specific “array” form or geometry.Furthermore, as used herein he term “array” or “array system” may beused include related and peripheral circuitry for signal generation,reception and transmission, such as radios, digital logic and modems. Insome embodiments, the charger 101 can have an embedded Wi-Fi hub.

The wireless devices 102 can include one or more receive power clients103. As illustrated in the example of FIG. 1, power delivery antennas104 a and data communication antennas 104 b are shown. The powerdelivery antennas 104 a are configured to provide delivery of wirelessradio frequency power in the wireless power delivery environment. Thedata communication antennas are configured to send data communicationsto and receive data communications from the power receiver clients103.1-103 and/or the wireless devices 102.1-102.n. In some embodiments,the data communication antennas can communicate via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi,Zigbee, etc.

Each power receiver client 103.1-103.n includes one or more antennas(not shown) for receiving signals from the chargers 101. Likewise, eachcharger 101.a-101.n includes an antenna array having one or moreantennas and/or sets of antennas capable of emitting continuous wavesignals at specific phases relative to each other. As discussed above,each array is capable of determining the appropriate phases fordelivering coherent signals to the power receiver clients 102.1-102.n.For example, coherent signals can be determined by computing the complexconjugate of a received beacon signal at each antenna of the array suchthat the coherent signal is properly phased for the particular powerreceiver client that transmitted the beacon signal.

Although not illustrated, each component of the environment, e.g.,wireless power receiver, charger, etc., can include control andsynchronization mechanisms, e.g., a data communication synchronizationmodule. The chargers 101.a-101.n can be connected to a power source suchas, for example, a power outlet or source connecting the chargers to astandard or primary alternating current (AC) power supply in a building.Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the chargers 101.a-101.ncan be powered by a battery or via other mechanisms.

In some embodiments, the power receiver clients 102.1-102.n and/or thechargers 101.a-101.n utilize reflective objects 106 such as, forexample, walls or other RF reflective obstructions within range tobeacon and deliver and/or receive wireless power and/or data within thewireless power delivery environment. The reflective objects 106 can beutilized for multi-directional signal communication regardless ofwhether a blocking object is in the line of sight between the chargerand the power receiver client.

As described herein, each wireless device 102.1-102.n can be any systemand/or device, and/or any combination of devices/systems that canestablish a connection with another device, a server and/or othersystems within the example environment 100. In some embodiments, thewireless devices 102.1-102.n include displays or other outputfunctionalities to present data to a user and/or input functionalitiesto receive data from the user. By way of example, a wireless device 102can be, but is not limited to, a video game controller, a serverdesktop, a desktop computer, a computer cluster, a mobile computingdevice such as a notebook, a laptop computer, a handheld computer, amobile phone, a smart phone, a PDA, a Blackberry device, a Treo, and/oran iPhone, etc. The wireless device 102 can also be any wearable devicesuch as watches, necklaces, rings or even devices embedded on or withinthe customer. Other examples of a wireless device 102 include, but arenot limited to, safety sensors (e.g., fire or carbon monoxide), electrictoothbrushes, electronic door lock/handles, electric light switchcontroller, electric shavers, etc.

Although not illustrated in the example of FIG. 1, the charger 101 andthe power receiver clients 103.1-103.n can each include a datacommunication module for communication via a data channel. Alternativelyor additionally, the power receiver clients 103.1-103.n can direct thewireless devices 102.1-102.n to communicate with the charger viaexisting data communications modules.

Additionally, in some embodiments the beacon signal, which is primarilyreferred to herein as a continuous waveform, can alternatively oradditionally take the form of a modulated signal.

FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram 200 illustrating example operations betweena wireless charger 101 and a power receiver client 103 for commencingwireless power delivery, according to an embodiment. Initially,communication is established between the charger 101 and the powerreceiver client 103. The charger 101 subsequently sends a beaconingschedule to the power receiver client 103 to arrange the beaconbroadcasting and the RF power/data delivery schedule. Based on theschedule, the power receiver client 103 broadcasts the beacon. As shown,the charger 101 receives the beacon from the power receiver client 103and detects the phase (or direction) at which the beacon signal wasreceived. The charger 101 then delivers wireless power and/or data tothe power receiver client 103 based the phase (or direction) of thereceived beacon. That is, the charger 101 determines the complexconjugate of the phase and uses the complex conjugate to deliver powerto the power receiver client 103 in the same direction in which thebeacon signal was received from the power receiver client 103.

In some embodiments, the charger 101 includes many antennas; one or moreof which are used to deliver power to the power receiver client 103. Thecharger 101 can detect phases at which the beacon signals that arereceived at each antenna. The large number of antennas may result indifferent beacon signals being received at each antenna of the charger101. The charger may then determine the complex conjugate of the beaconsignals received at each antenna. Using the complex conjugates, one ormore antenna may emit a signal that takes into account the effects ofthe large number of antennas in the charger 101. In other words, thecharger 101 emits a signal from one or more antennas in such a way as tocreate an aggregate signal from the one or more of the antennas thatapproximately recreates the waveform of the beacon in the oppositedirection.

As described herein, wireless power can be delivered in power cycles. Amore detailed example of the signaling required to commence wirelesspower delivery is described below with reference to FIG. 3. As discussedherein, once paired, the charger and the client have an established linkfor transmission of RF power and for communication of data. Thefollowing example describes an example of the system power cycle (whichincludes the pairing process) according to an embodiment.

In an example of operation, a master bus controller (MBC), whichcontrols the charger array, receives power from a power source and isactivated. The MBC activates the proxy antenna elements on the chargerarray and the proxy antenna elements enter a default “discovery” mode toidentify available wireless receiver clients within range of the chargerarray. When a client is found, the antenna elements on the charger arraypower on, enumerate, and (optionally) calibrate.

Next, the MBC generates a Beacon Beat Schedule (BBS) cycle, and a PowerSchedule (PS) for all wireless power receiver clients that are toreceive power based on their corresponding properties and/orrequirements. The MBC also identifies any other available clients thatwill have their status queried in the Client Query Table (CQT). Clientsthat are placed in the CQT are those on “standby”, e.g., not receiving acharge. The BBS and PS are calculated based on vital information aboutthe clients such as, for example, battery status, currentactivity/usage, how much longer it has until it runs out of power,priority in terms of usage, etc.

The Proxy AE broadcasts the BBS to all clients. As discussed herein, theBBS indicates when each client should send a beacon. Likewise the PSindicates when and to which clients the array should send power to. Eachclient starts broadcasting its beacon and receiving power from the arrayper the BBS and PS. The Proxy can concurrently query the Client QueryTable to check the status of other available clients. A client can onlyexist in the BBS or the CQT (e.g., waitlist), but not in both. In someembodiments, a limited number of clients can be served on the BBS and PS(e.g., 32). Likewise, the CQT may also be limited to a number of clients(e.g., 32). Thus, for example, if more than 64 clients are within rangeof the charger, some of those clients would not be active in either theBBS or CQT. The information collected in the previous step continuouslyand/or periodically updates the BBS cycle and/or the PS.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating example components of a wirelesscharger 300, in accordance with an embodiment. As illustrated in theexample of FIG. 3, the wireless charger 300 includes a master buscontroller (MBC) board and multiple mezzanine boards that collectivelycomprise the antenna array. The MBC includes control logic 310, anexternal power interface (I/F) 320, a communication block 330, and proxy340. The mezzanine (or antenna array boards 350) each include multipleantennas 360 a-360 n. Some or all of the components can be omitted insome embodiments. Additional components are also possible.

The control logic 310 is configured to provide all control andintelligence to the array components. The control logic 310 may compriseone or more processors, FPGAs, memory units, etc., and direct andcontrol the various data and power communications. The communicationblock 330 can direct data communications on a data carrier frequency,such as the base signal clock for clock synchronization. The datacommunications can be Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, etc. Likewise, the proxy340 can communicate with clients via data communications as discussedherein. The data communications can be Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, etc.The external power interface 320 is configured to receive external powerand provide the power to various components. In some embodiments, theexternal power interface 320 may be configured to receive a standardexternal 24 Volt power supply. Alternative configurations are alsopossible.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating example components of a wirelesspower receiver (client), in accordance with some embodiments. Asillustrated in the example of FIG. 4, the receiver 400 includes controllogic 410, battery 420, communication block 430 and associated antenna470, power meter 440, rectifier 450, a combiner 455, beacon signalgenerator 460 and an associated antenna 480, and switch 465 connectingthe rectifier 450 or the beacon signal generator 460 to one or moreassociated antennas 490 a-n. Some or all of the components can beomitted in some embodiments. Additional components are also possible.

A combiner 455 receives and combines the received power transmissionsignals from the power transmitter in the event that the receiver 400has more than one antenna. The combiner can be any combiner or dividercircuit that is configured to achieve isolation between the output portswhile maintaining a matched condition. For example, the combiner 455 canbe a Wilkinson Power Divider circuit.

The rectifier 450 receives the combined power transmission signal fromthe combiner 455, if present, which is fed through the power meter 440to the battery 420 for charging. The power meter 440 measures thereceived power signal strength and provides the control logic 410 withthis measurement. The control logic 410 also may receive the batterypower level from the battery 420 itself. The control logic 410 may alsotransmit/receive via the communication block 430 a data signal on a datacarrier frequency, such as the base signal clock for clocksynchronization. The beacon signal generator 460 transmits the beaconsignal, or calibration signal, using either the antenna 480 or 490. Itmay be noted that, although the battery 420 is shown for being chargedand for providing power to the receiver 400, the receiver may alsoreceive its power directly from the rectifier 450. This may be inaddition to the rectifier 450 providing charging current to the battery420, or in lieu of providing charging. Also, it may be noted that theuse of multiple antennas is one example of implementation and thestructure may be reduced to one shared antenna.

A client identifier (ID) module 415 stores a client ID that can uniquelyidentify the power receiver client in a wireless power deliveryenvironment. For example, the ID can be transmitted to one or morechargers when communication are established. In some embodiments, powerreceiver clients may also be able to receive and identify other powerreceiver clients in a wireless power delivery environment based on theclient ID.

An optional motion sensor 495 can detect motion and signal the controllogic 410 to act accordingly. For example, when a device is receivingpower at high frequencies, e.g., above 500 MHz, its location may becomea hotspot of (incoming) radiation. Thus, when the device is on a person,e.g., embedded in a mobile device, the level of radiation may exceedacceptable radiation levels set by the Federal Communications Commission(FCC) or other medical/industrial authorities. To avoid any potentialradiation issue, the device may integrate motion detection mechanismssuch as accelerometers or equivalent mechanisms. Once the device detectsthat it is in motion, it may be assumed that it is being handled by auser, and would trigger a signal to the array either to stoptransmitting power to it, or to lower the received power to anacceptable fraction of the power. In cases where the device is used in amoving environment like a car, train or plane, the power might only betransmitted intermittently or at a reduced level unless the device isclose to losing all available power.

II. Imaging and Tracking Objects/Heat and Flow Map Generation

Various techniques and examples for imaging wireless power deliveryenvironments and tracking objects contained therein are described inmore detail below. More specifically, the embodiments below describetechniques for generating a 3D image (or hologram) of the wireless powerdelivery environment including static or semi-static objects usingbeacon signaling transmitted by power receiver clients distributedthroughout the environment. The techniques also describe trackingnon-static objects through the wireless power delivery environment andgenerating heat and flow maps to indicate movement of the non-staticobjects within the environment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example wireless power distribution(or delivery) environment 500 including a processing system 550configured to, among other features, generate a 3D image (or hologram)of static or semi-static objects in the wireless power distributionenvironment 500. Additionally, the processing system 550 is furtherconfigured to track the relative locations and movement of non-staticobjects in the wireless power distribution environment 500.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 5, the wireless power distribution(or delivery) environment 500 can include a wireless charger 501,multiple power receiver clients 503 a-503 n and the processing system550. The power receiver client 503 a-503 n are configured to receivewireless power from the wireless charger 501. The power receiver clients503 a-503 n can be embedded in static or semi-static objects throughoutthe wireless power distribution (or delivery) environment 500. Forexample, in some embodiments the power receiver clients 503 a-503 n canbe embedded in wirelessly powered electronic display or price tagdevices. Additionally, the power receiver clients 503 a-503 n can beembedded in non-static objects such as user devices, e.g., mobilephones. The charger 501 can be the charger 101 of FIG. 1, althoughalternative configurations are possible. The example of FIG. 5 shows asingle wireless charger; however, the wireless power distribution (ordelivery) environment 500 can include any number of chargers, which can,for example, extend the reach of the provide power to larger geographicenvironments and/or service more power receiver clients.

In some embodiments, the charger 501 communicates with the processingsystem 550 via any wired or wireless network. Furthermore, althoughshown as distinct systems, in some embodiments some or all of thecomponents and/or functionality of the processing system 550 can,alternatively or additionally, be included in one or more wirelesschargers 501.

As shown in the example of FIG. 5, processing system 550 includes amapping and tracking module 555. The mapping and tracking module 555 isconfigured to generate a 3D image (or hologram) of the wireless powerdelivery environment 500 including static or semi-static objects and anyother obstructions or reflective objects such as, for example, walls orother RF reflective obstructions within the wireless power distribution(or delivery) environment 500.

As discussed herein, the wireless charger 501 is configured withmultiple adaptively-phased antennas that receive beacon signals from thepower receiver clients 503 a-503 n and measure the phases of the beaconsignals at each of multiple adaptively-phased antennas. In someembodiments, the magnitudes of the beacon signals are also measured andcompared as described herein. As illustrated in FIG. 6, operation of thewireless charger 501 and/or the processing system 550 can be dividedinto two phases: a learning (or training) phase and a tracking andupdating phase.

During the learning (or training) phase, the 3D image (or hologram) ofthe wireless power delivery environment is generated based on receivedphases. The period of time t1 that is necessary to generate an initial3D image (or hologram) of the wireless power delivery environment canvary depending on a number of factors. For example, the complexity ofthe environment, the number of chargers, the number of wireless powerreceivers transmitting beacon, and movement of non-static objects canall have an impact on the time that is required to generate an initial3D image (or hologram) of the wireless power delivery environment.

In some embodiments, the wireless charger 501 sends the phasemeasurements to the processing system 550 which receives the signalsand, over a period of time, identifies the environment. For example, theprocessing system 550 can average the measurements over time to get aview of an empty store with static objects, e.g., by subtracting anyobjects that move. An example process for generating a 3D image (orhologram) of the wireless power delivery environment is shown anddiscussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 7A-7B. Likewise FIG.10 illustrates a 2D representation of an example 3D image (or hologram)of a retail environment.

During the tracking and updated phase, non-static objects are trackedthough the 3D image (or hologram) of the wireless power deliveryenvironment e.g., a retail environment. For example, non-static ormoving objects such as, for example, customers in a retail environmentcan be tracked through the wireless power delivery environment e.g., aretail environment based on phase changes measured in the receivedbeacon signals. An example process of tracking objects in a wirelesspower delivery environment is shown and discussed in greater detail withreference to FIG. 8.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are data flow diagrams illustrating an example process700 for generating a 3D image (or hologram) of the wireless powerdelivery environment, according to some embodiments. More specifically,the example process 700 illustrates generation of a 3D image (orhologram) during a learning (or training) phase. A wireless powerdelivery system can, among other functions, perform the example process700. The wireless power delivery system can include components of awireless charger, e.g., a wireless charger 501 of FIG. 5, and/or aprocessing system, e.g., processing system 550.

To begin, at process 710, the wireless power delivery systemsequentially receives beacon signals from multiple power receiverclients respectively in a wireless power delivery environment. Asdiscussed above, the power receiver clients can transmit beaconsaccording to a BBS. At process 712, the wireless power delivery systemmeasures the phase of the beacon signals at each of multipleadaptively-phased antennas. At process 714, the wireless power deliverysystem generates a phase pattern for each received beacon signal. Thephase pattern includes the phase of the beacon signal as measured ateach of the multiple adaptively-phased antennas.

At process 716, the wireless power delivery system compares each phasepattern generated for a beacon signal sent from a power receiver clientto a previous phase pattern generated for a beacon signal sent from thepower receiver client to identify phase differences. At decision process718, the wireless power delivery system determines if the phases arediffer over time. The process is performed by averaging out themeasurements over a period of time to obtain a view of the environmentwith only static or semi-static objects. Non-static (or moving) objectsare removed and/or otherwise subtracted out. If the measured phasessubstantially differ over time then the wireless charging system returnsto process 710. If the measured phases are substantially the same overtime then, at process 720, the wireless charging system saves theexpected phase pattern for the beacon signal. As discussed herein, thephase pattern can include the expected phase of the beacon signal ateach of the multiple adaptively-phased antennas.

At decision process 730, the wireless power delivery system determinesif the expected phase patterns for more than a threshold of the powerreceiver clients have been saved. In some embodiments, the threshold canbe include expected phase patterns for all of the power receiver clientsin the wireless power delivery environment. Alternatively, the thresholdcan be a fraction or percentage of the beacons received from all powerreceiver clients within range.

At process 732, the wireless power delivery system processes theexpected phase patterns in aggregate to identify static or semi-staticobjects and other obstructions within the wireless power deliveryenvironment. In some embodiments, ultrasound mathematics can be used toidentify the static or semi-static objects and the other obstructionswithin the wireless power delivery environment.

Lastly, at process 734, the wireless power delivery system generates a3D image (or hologram) of the wireless power delivery environmentinclude the static or semi-static objects and the other obstructions. Asdiscussed herein, static or semi-static objects can be any objects thatdo not move for a movement threshold, e.g., multiple minutes, hours,days, etc. For example, shelfing units in a retail store or even itemson the shelfs can be considered static or semi-static even though theymay eventually be moved or sold. Non-static items are those objects thatexceed the movement threshold. For example, customers or patrons maymove about a store and remain static for short periods of time withoutexceeding the movement threshold, e.g., while waiting in line, readingproduct information, etc., are thus, considered non-static objectsherein.

FIG. 8 is a data flow diagram illustrating an example process 800 fortracking objects in a wireless power delivery environment, according tosome embodiments. More specifically, the example process 800 illustratestracking non-static objects, e.g., customers or patrons, through awireless power delivery environment based on phase changes of receivedbeacon signals that are transmitted by power receiver clientsdistributed throughout the wireless power delivery environment. Asdiscussed above, the 3D image (or hologram) can be generated and/orotherwise developed during a learning (or training) phase. A wirelesspower delivery system can, among other functions, perform the exampleprocess 800. The wireless power delivery system can include componentsof a wireless charger, e.g., a wireless charger 501 of FIG. 5, and/or aprocessing system, e.g., processing system 550.

To begin, at process 810, the wireless power delivery system receivesbeacon signals transmitted by multiple power receiver clients in thewireless power delivery environment. As discussed herein, the beaconsignals are received at multiple adaptively-phased radio frequencyantennas of the wireless power delivery system over a period of time.

At process 812, the wireless power delivery system generates a phasepattern for each received beacon signal. Each phase pattern includes ameasured phase of the received beacon at each of the multipleadaptively-phased RF antennas. In some embodiments, the phase patterncan also include measured magnitude information of the received beaconsignal at each of the multiple adaptively-phased RF antennas.

At process 814, the wireless power delivery system compares the phasepatterns to an expected phase pattern. As discussed herein, the expectedphase pattern includes the phases at which each beacon signal isexpected to be received by the wireless power delivery system in theabsence of non-static (or moving) objects within the wireless powerdelivery environment, which can affect the measured phases.

At process 816, the wireless power delivery system processes the phasedifferences to identify one or more non-static objects within thewireless power delivery environment.

At process 818, the wireless power delivery system tracks movement dataassociated with the one or more non-static objects based on the 3D image(or hologram) of the wireless power delivery environment and the phasedifferences in the phase patterns. For example, in some embodiments,ultrasound mathematics can be used to identify and track the locationsor movement of the non-static objects within the wireless power deliveryenvironment. As discussed above, the three-dimensional image identifiesshapes and relative locations of static or semi-static objects withinthe wireless power delivery environment. In some embodiments, the shapeand relative locations of the static and non-static objects in thewireless power delivery environment can be determined with wavelengthlevel accuracy.

At process 820, the wireless power delivery system aggregates themovement data associated with the one or more non-static objects withinthe wireless power delivery environment. In some embodiments, themovement data can be aggregated over a period of time, e.g., 2 hour timeperiods, a day, etc.

At process 822, the wireless power delivery system generates amotion-based map indicating the aggregated movement of the one or morenon-static objects within the wireless power delivery environment.

In some embodiments, generating the motion-based map includes processingthe aggregated movement data associated with the one or more non-staticobjects to identify one or more dwell points within the wireless powerdelivery environment, and identifying the dwell points on thethree-dimensional image of the wireless power delivery environment. Thedwell points can indicate stagnation in particular area of the wirelesspower delivery environment for a corresponding dwell time. Theidentification of the dwell points on the three-dimensional image caninclude, for example, superimposing or otherwise marking the dwellpoints on the three-dimensional image of the wireless power deliveryenvironment. Alternatively or additionally, the dwell points could beadded on top of the three-dimensional image of the wireless powerdelivery environment via layer data. Other examples are also possible.

In some embodiments, the dwell points indicate a corresponding dwelltime on the three-dimensional image of the wireless environment. Colorsor shading can be used to indicate the dwell time. For example, darkershading or colors could indicate a longer dwell time. In some instances,the system can determine the shade or color based on pre-determinedranges of time or quantization. An example motion-based map thatincludes the dwell times (also referred to as a heat map herein) isshown in FIG. 13.

In some embodiments, generating the motion-based map includes processingthe aggregated movement data associated with the one or more non-staticobjects to identify one or more motion vectors within the wireless powerdelivery environment, and identifying the motion vectors on thethree-dimensional image of the wireless power delivery environment. Themotion vectors can indicate a general direction of motion of the one ormore static objects and can be, in some embodiments, derived from themotion-based map including the dwell times. The identification of themotion vectors on the three-dimensional image can include, for example,superimposing or otherwise marking the motion vectors on thethree-dimensional image of the wireless power delivery environment.Alternatively or additionally, the motion vectors could be added on topof the three-dimensional image of the wireless power deliveryenvironment via layer data. Other examples are also possible. The motionvectors can be derived from movement data and in some instances,indicate a magnitude of the flow. For example if most customers move ina particular direction, e.g., >90%, the motion vector can be darkened orlengthened relative to other vectors.

III. Retail Solutions and Wireless Electronic Displays

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a wireless power distribution (ordelivery) environment in the form of an example distributed retailenvironment 900, according to some embodiments. The retail environment900 can be the wireless power distribution (or delivery) environment 500of FIG. 5, although alternative configurations are possible. Additionalor fewer components are possible.

As shown in the example of FIG. 9, the retail environment 900 includes aprocessing system 950, a network 960, multiple third party dataconsumers 910, a centralized retailer system 915 in communication with acentralized retailer database 910 and at least one retailer powerdistribution premises 920. In some embodiments, an administrator canaccess and/or otherwise control or provision the one or more chargers901 via the local retailer system 970.

The retailer power distribution premises 920 can include one or morechargers 901 in communication with the network 960, an administratordevice 905 (either locally or via network 960), and a local retailersystem 970 in communication with a local database 975. The one or morechargers 901 are in further communication with various devices havingembedded wireless power receiver clients such as, for example, powerreceiver client 400 of FIG. 4. As shown in the example of FIG. 9, thedevices include multiple smart phones (or other smart devices) 903 a-n,multiple carts or baskets 904, and multiple wireless electronic displays980 a-n. The wireless electronic displays 980 a-n can be, for examplewireless price tag devices. Components of an example wireless electronicdisplay are shown and discussed in greater detail with reference to FIG.12.

The processing system 950 can, among other features, generate orfacilitate generation of a 3D image (or hologram) of static orsemi-static objects in the retailer power distribution premises 920.FIG. 10 illustrates a 2D representation of an example 3D image (orhologram) of static or semi-static objects in the retailer powerdistribution premises 920. The processing system 950 can also track orfacilitate tracking of the relative locations and movement of non-staticobjects (e.g., customers) in the retailer power distribution premises920. Additionally, the processing system 950 can provide smartrecommendations to customers (not shown) and can further facilitate (inwhole or in part) the imaging and tracking techniques described herein.Although shown as cloud-based, in some embodiments some or all of theprocessing system 950, or the functionality of the processing system950, can alternatively or additionally be located in the retailer powerdistribution premises 920. For example, the functionality of theprocessing system 950 discussed herein can, alternatively oradditionally, be performed by the one or more chargers 901 and/or thelocal retailer system 970.

As shown in FIG. 9, the processing system 950 includes multiple servers940 and data repositories 930. Any number of servers 940 and/or datarepositories 930 may be included in processing system 950. In someembodiments, the cloud processing system 950 can include arecommendation engine (not shown) configured to provide customers withindividual product recommendations based on, for example, historicalperformance of other customers/consumers with similar taste, etc.Additionally, the processing system 950 can include various learningsystems and/or algorithms. For example, the processing system 950 canprovide supervised learning (or machine learning systems) which canleverage classification algorithms to identify items or products basedon criteria, and can be trained with more data and refinement ofresults, etc. Examples of usage include, by way of example and notlimitation, pattern and image recognition. Additionally, the processingsystem 950 can provide unsupervised learning leverage clusteringalgorithms to identify patterns/trends in data, etc.

The one or more chargers 901 provide wireless power to various wirelessdevices as described herein. For example, the wireless devices can beany wireless device (smart or dumb) or system that needs power and iscapable of receiving wireless power via one or more integrated powerreceiver clients. The wireless devices can be wireless devices102.1-102.n of FIG. 1 and the power receiver clients can be powerreceiver clients 103.1-103.n, although alternative configurations arepossible. As described herein, the chargers 901 can facilitategeneration of a 3D image (or hologram) of static or semi-static objectsin the retailer power distribution premises 920 based on beacon signalsreceived from electronic displays 980 a-n that are distributedthroughout, and wirelessly powered within, retailer power distributionpremises 920. The electronic displays 980 a-n are generally static inthe retailer power distribution premises 920 and, in some embodiments,their relative locations will be provided to the charger and/orprocessing system for facilitating generation of the 3D image (orhologram) the retailer power distribution premises 920.

Objects within the retailer power distribution premises 920 cansubsequently be tracked based on phase changes in received beaconsignals that are measured at the wireless chargers 901. As discussedherein, the phase changes occur as a result of non-static objects orobstructions, e.g., customers moving around a store, etc. The phasechanges are used in conjunction with the 3D image (or hologram) of theenvironment to determine relative locations of objects and to trackobjects (e.g., customers) through the retailer power distributionpremises 920. In some instances, customers can also be individuallyidentified and tracked via wireless power receiver client embedded ontheir person, e.g., in their wireless device, or embedded in a cart orbasket associated with the customer.

As discussed herein, techniques are also described for determiningcustomer behavior or patterns. In the example of FIG. 9, the customerbehavior or patterns can be determined by the processing system 950, theone or more chargers 901 and/or the local retailer system 970. In someembodiments, the local retailer system 970 can dynamically drive changes(e.g., demand-based pricing) to the electronic displays (e.g., pricesfor price tags) based on the customer behavior or patterns. For example,the customer behavior or patterns can identify when a store might bebusy, e.g., from 5:00 PM-7:00 PM, or when quantity of a particular itemis limited, and the prices could automatically be driven up. The localretailer system 970 can also identify perishable items and graduallyreduce the price so that the retailer produces less waste.

In some embodiments, the electronic displays (e.g., price tags)described in this example are wirelessly charged and thus, retailers candrive price changes without being concerned with the draining batteriesor battery systems of the electronic displays. In some embodiments, eachwirelessly-powered electronic display can represent a mini e-Commercewebsite for the specific item. The electronic display can present dataincluding information associated with an item or product. By way ofexample and not limitation, the information can include item descriptioninformation, item pricing information, aggregated customer score orratings associated with the item, and/or customer reviews associatedwith the item.

In some embodiments, customers can have carts or baskets 904 a-nequipped with one or more integrated power receiver clients that canalternatively or additionally be used to track the customers. Althoughnot shown, in some embodiments, in addition to providing locationinformation, power receiver clients integrated into carts or baskets canpower themselves and/or interaction units, e.g., display units, capableof providing the customer with information and/or receiving informationfrom the customers.

Customer profile information such as customer preferences, purchasehistory, etc., can be maintained and/or otherwise processed in variouslocations. For example, the retailer may maintain customer profileinformation at a central retailer system 915 in one or more databases910. This can be useful for retailers with multiple store locations.Alternatively or additionally, local systems such as, for example,retailer system 970 can maintain customer profile information. In someembodiments, the information is provided to various local retailersystems 970 by a central retailer system 915.

As discussed herein, the electronic display(s) 980 a-n can receive powerand/or data from wireless chargers 901. Alternatively or additionally,the electronic display(s) 980 can have other wired or wirelessnetworking connections and/or otherwise be in communication with a localretailer system 970 and/or a central retailer system 915. For example,the electronic display(s) 980 can be in communication with a localretailer system 970 and/or a central retailer system 915 via a wirelesslocal area network (WLAN) such as Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, etc., or awireless personal area network (WPAN) such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, RFIDetc. In some embodiments, the electronic display(s) 980 and/or the localretailer system 970 and/or the central retailer system 915 can also bein direct communication with customers' wireless devices via WLAN, WPAN,etc.

In some embodiments, the retailer systems can dynamically push out priceupdates for items or products to the electronic display(s) 980. Theprice update information can be pushed out to the electronic display(s)980 by way of one or more chargers 2301. Alternatively or additionally,the price update information can be pushed out wirelessly to theelectronic display(s) 980 via a local retailer system 970 and/or acentral retailer system 915. The system can also track item or productavailability for product ordering (reordering), shelf restocking, etc.

In some embodiments, the electronic display(s) 980 comprise priceinformation, e.g., electronic price tags. Once the customer is within aspecific range (threshold range) from the electronic price tag, theelectronic price tag may be able to identify the customer through, forexample, a loyalty card or the customer's wireless device. As discussedherein, profile information can be kept and stored about customers inaddition to tracking the customers. The electronic displays 980, e.g.,electronic price tags, can then customize information to the customer.As discussed in greater detail below, the electronic displays haveembedded power receiver clients that send beacon signals to a chargerand are used to generate a map of the wireless environment. In someembodiments, the retailer systems may know the layout of the store andcommunicate with the charger the locations of the static electronicdisplays through wired or wireless mechanisms.

In some embodiments, the cloud processing system 950 can processinformation related to items purchased by customers at one or moreretailer locations, items purchased by similar customers, etc., andprovide product recommendations and/or messages to the customers. Theproduct recommendations and/or messages can be provided to thecustomer's associated wireless device and/or display equippedcart/basket. Alternatively or additionally, the product recommendationsand/or messages can be provided to the electronic displays 980 near orproximate to the customer. In yet other embodiments, the productrecommendations and/or messages can be sent to the customers via email,SMS messaging, etc.

As discussed above, the techniques described herein can facilitatevarious data collection, customer tracking, and motion detectionfunctionality. The collected data can be processed by a cloud processingsystem to develop individual profile information about customers and/oraggregated and provided to third party data consumers 910. The profileinformation can include historical data, e.g., purchases, visits,movement through retail premises, etc.

In some embodiments, the system provides for various consumer reviewsincluding descriptions and rankings (or scoring) of products. Examplesof a customer scoring and a customer description review are shown anddiscussed in greater detail with reference to FIG. 9.

In some embodiments, a customer can create a shopping list and use anapplication downloaded to the wireless device to automatically create ashopping plan route. The shopping plan route can be calculated based onthe layout of the retail premises as determined by the charger.Furthermore, the wireless device can help guide the customer through thestore in real-time and re-calculate the route automatically when thecustomer takes detours and/or otherwise changes course. Essentially, thesystem provides an indoor GPS system that tracks the customer throughthe retail environment using the customer's wireless device and/orcart/basket and the system's knowledge of the store layout, e.g., storeshelving and electronic displays 980 for the particular items orproducts.

In some embodiments, one or more components of the system can direct theelectronic displays to provide special instructions corresponding to anitem purchased or to be purchased. The special instructions can, forexample, include products and/or services that can be (or are regularly)used in conjunction and/or are otherwise related to a particular itempurchased or to be purchased. The system can suggest the additional itemand then guide the user through retailer premises to the location of theadditional item.

As discussed above, FIG. 10 illustrates a 2D representation of anexample 3D image (or hologram) of a retail environment 1000 that isgenerated as described herein. The retail environment 1000 can be theretailer power distribution premises 920 of FIG. 9, although alternativeconfigurations are possible. A single wireless charger 1001 is shown inthe example retail environment of FIG. 10, however, the environment caninclude any number of chargers. As shown in the example of FIG. 10,multiple display racks on which retail items or products can be placedare shown.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example display rack 1100,according to an embodiment. The display rack 1100 can include multiplewireless electronic displays (or price tags) 1180 a-n that can presentcommunications (e.g., prices and other product information) tocustomers. As discussed herein the presented communications candynamically be change frequently without concern for battery life as theelectronic displays 1180 each include one or more wireless powerreceivers.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating example components of anelectronic display 1200, in accordance with some embodiments. Theelectronic display 1200 can be any electronic display 980 a-n of FIG. 9or 1180 a-n of FIG. 11, although alternative configurations arepossible.

As illustrated in the example of FIG. 12, the electronic display 1200includes a power receiver client 1202, a battery system 1210, aBluetooth (BT) module 1215, a Wi-Fi module 1220, a display system 1230,a memory 1235, one or more controllers 1240, a payment module 1250, anobject identification module 1260, an RFID module 1270 having an RFIDantenna 1275, and a near field communication (NFC) module 1280 having anNFC antenna 1285. Additional or fewer components are possible.Furthermore, the electronic display 1200 can be encased and/otherwiseprotected in whole or in part by a housing (not shown).

The power receiver client 1202 can be wireless power receiver client 400of FIG. 4, although alternative configurations are possible. As shown inthe example of FIG. 12, the power receiver client 1202 includes a dataprocessing module 1204, a power harvesting module 1206, and anidentification (ID) module 1208. Additional or fewer components ormodules are possible. Furthermore, the power receiver client 1202 can becommunicatively coupled to one or more antennas 1205 a-n configured toreceived data and power signals. In some embodiments, antennas 1205 a-ncan be shared with data communication modules such as Wi-Fi module 1215and BT module 1220 which are configured to process data signals receivedvia their respective standards. In some embodiments, the data processingmodule 1204 can route the data signals to the appropriate modules forprocessing.

The power harvesting module 1206 can harvest power received from acharger. The battery system 1210 can power operation of the electronicdisplay 1202. The power receiver client 1202 can charge the batterysystem 1210 via an internal battery (not shown) or directly. Asdiscussed, the Wi-Fi module 1220 and the Bluetooth (BT) module 1215 areconfigured to receive and process data communications from other systemsor apparatuses within the wireless power delivery environment.

The memory 1235 can be any memory system configured to storeinstructions which can be executed by one or more controllers 1240. Insome embodiments, the controllers can also control the display system1230. In some embodiments, the display system 1230 can be an interactivesystem such as a touch screen display; however other embodiments arepossible. By way of example and not limitation, the display screen 1230can be an e-ink display, a liquid crystal display, a light emittingdiode display, etc., including combinations or variations thereof.

In some embodiments, a payment module 1250 can process paymentinformation and/or otherwise facilitate payment via the electronicdisplay 1200. For example, a QR code generation module can generate a QRcode that can be scanned by customer using a mobile device. Oncescanned, cart information can be updated and payment can be made via thecustomer's mobile device. Alternatively or additionally, in someembodiments payment can be made via NFC module 1280. The information canbe routed to the payment module 1250 for processing and finalization.

In some embodiments, the electronic display 1200 can identify proximateobjects (e.g., customers) via a loyalty card, the user's mobile device,etc. For example, a loyalty card can have an embedded RFID tag which canbe read by RFID module 1270 when proximate the loyalty card. The objectidentification module 1260 can search the database and/or otherwiserequest information about the use. Alternatively, the identityinformation can be transferred to a local or cloud-based retail orprocessing system for further processing.

FIG. 13 is diagram illustrating an example heat (or dwell map) 1300,according to some embodiments. More specifically, the heat (or dwellmap) 1300 includes dwell times that are indicated on the example 3Dimage (or hologram) of a retail environment 1000 that is generated asdescribed with reference to FIG. 10.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example flow map 1400, according tosome embodiments. More specifically, the flow map 1400 includes motionvectors that are indicated on the example 3D image (or hologram) of aretail environment 1000 that is generated as described with reference toFIG. 10.

FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate various examples of the graphical userinterfaces that can be displayed to a customer via an electronic display(or price tag) when the customer is near or proximate to the electronicdisplay. As discussed herein, a local retailer system such as, forexample, local retailer system 970 of FIG. 9 can, among other features,provide and/or otherwise drive electronic displays with particularinformation about a nearby customer and/or provide communications tocustomize the electronic display for that customer. FIGS. 15A-Cillustrate various examples of the graphical user interfaces that can bedisplayed to the customer via the electronic display 980 when thecustomer is near or proximate to the electronic display 980.

In the examples of FIGS. 15A-15D a top descriptor pane 1515A-Dcommunicates information to the customer when the customer is within athreshold distance from the electronic display 1580. An indicator button1510A-D on the descriptor pane 1515A-D can indicate when a customer isdetected. For example, the indicator button 1510A-D can light up greenwhen the customer is detected. Additionally, in some embodiments, thecustomer's wireless device can also provide some indication of proximity(closeness or pairing) with a nearby electronic display.

In some embodiments, a button pane on the right of the display can allowthe customer to transition (e.g., via touchscreen) through variousscreens. In particular, a price screen (also referred to herein as anintroduction screen) is shown in the example of FIG. 15A, a score screenis shown in the example of FIG. 15B, a review screen is shown in theexample of FIG. 15C, and a buy screen is shown in the example of FIG.15D.

In some embodiments, the price screen can be the default screen shown tothe customer immediately upon detection (or pairing with the customer).Alternatively or additionally, selection by the customer of the pricebuttons 1520A-D (e.g., via touchscreen) can cause or otherwise directthe electronic display to show the price screen. As illustrated in theexample of FIG. 15A, the top descriptor pane 1515A can provide the userwith a greeting. In this example, the top descriptor pane 1515A providesthe following greeting: “Hi Cristina! Last time you bought two (2) ofthese,” when the customer (i.e., Christina or Christina's device) isnear or proximate to the electronic display. In this example, theelectronic display is associated with and/or corresponding to KirklandSignature Baby Wipes. Additional product information portion 1516A canshow information about the product and a price. Bar code portion 1517Acan provide the product barcode (e.g., UPC code).

Selection by the customer of the score buttons 1530A-D (e.g., viatouchscreen) can cause or otherwise direct the electronic display toshow the score screen. As illustrated in the example of FIG. 15B, thescore screen shows a score message in the descriptor pane 1515B. In thisexample, the score message recites: “Overall score: 4.3. Looks like ahighly rated product with good value.” A score portion 1550B illustratesthe scores the product received (e.g., based on customer that bought theproduct at particular retailer locations, e.g., Walmart, Amazon,Target). The retailer location information is optional.

Selection by the customer of the review buttons 1540A-D (e.g., viatouchscreen) can cause or otherwise direct the electronic display toshow the review screen. As illustrated in the example of FIG. 15C, thereview screen shows a message in the descriptor pane 1515C indicating aparticular review that is currently displayed in the review portion1560C.

Selection by the customer of the buy button 1545A-D (e.g., viatouchscreen) can cause or otherwise direct the electronic display toshow a code for scanning by the customer. As illustrated in the exampleof FIG. 15D, the buy screen shows a QR Code. The QR Code can be scannedby the customer via, for example, an application on the customers mobiledevice. Once scanned, the QR Code can automatically cause an eCommerceweb page to launch on the device (not shown). The eCommerce web pageallows the customer to purchase the item. For example, the customer canenter the quantity directly from the shelf and make payment (e.g., makethe payment on the spot or by adding the item(s) to a list of purchaseditems such that when the customer arrives at checkout, all of the itemsare scanned). This means that the shopper (or customer) has the abilityto either pay for each item individually or collectively without anofficial physical checkout. Alternatively, the customer can check outvia an automated clerk that takes the payment (e.g., the automated clerkwill know what the customer purchased based on the list of purchaseditems).

In alternative embodiments to the examples shown and discussed in theexamples of FIGS. 15A-D, various design variations are possible. Forexample, in some embodiments, it is possible to include a single buttonon the screen with an indicator next to the label such that the user orcustomer knows which screen they are on. In such cases, each click ofthe button will cause a move to the next screen. When the user reachesthe Review screen, for example, the user can double press to review andcan scroll through the reviews until interrupted by a press that willsend them to the next screen. It is appreciated that other embodimentsand variations are possible.

Example Systems

FIG. 16 depicts a block diagram illustrating example components of arepresentative mobile device or tablet computer 1600 with a wirelesspower receiver or client in the form of a mobile (or smart) phone ortablet computer device, according to an embodiment. Various interfacesand modules are shown with reference to FIG. 16, however, the mobiledevice or tablet computer does not require all of modules or functionsfor performing the functionality described herein. It is appreciatedthat, in many embodiments, various components are not included and/ornecessary for operation of the category controller. For example,components such as GPS radios, cellular radios, and accelerometers maynot be included in the controllers to reduce costs and/or complexity.Additionally, components such as ZigBee radios and RFID transceivers,along with antennas, can populate the Printed Circuit Board.

The wireless power receiver client can be a power receiver clients 103of FIG. 1, although alternative configurations are possible.Additionally, the wireless power receiver client can include one or moreRF antennas for reception of power and/or data signals from a charger,e.g., charger 101 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 17 depicts a diagrammatic representation of a machine, in theexample form, of a computer system within which a set of instructions,for causing the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologiesdiscussed herein, may be executed.

In the example of FIG. 17, the computer system includes a processor,memory, non-volatile memory, and an interface device. Various commoncomponents (e.g., cache memory) are omitted for illustrative simplicity.The computer system 1700 is intended to illustrate a hardware device onwhich any of the components depicted in the example of FIG. 1 (and anyother components described in this specification) can be implemented.For example, the computer system can be any radiating object or antennaarray system. The computer system can be of any applicable known orconvenient type. The components of the computer system can be coupledtogether via a bus or through some other known or convenient device.

The processor may be, for example, a conventional microprocessor such asan Intel Pentium microprocessor or Motorola power PC microprocessor. Oneof skill in the relevant art will recognize that the terms“machine-readable (storage) medium” or “computer-readable (storage)medium” include any type of device that is accessible by the processor.

The memory is coupled to the processor by, for example, a bus. Thememory can include, by way of example but not limitation, random accessmemory (RAM), such as dynamic RAM (DRAM) and static RAM (SRAM). Thememory can be local, remote, or distributed.

The bus also couples the processor to the non-volatile memory and driveunit. The non-volatile memory is often a magnetic floppy or hard disk, amagnetic-optical disk, an optical disk, a read-only memory (ROM), suchas a CD-ROM, EPROM, or EEPROM, a magnetic or optical card, or anotherform of storage for large amounts of data. Some of this data is oftenwritten, by a direct memory access process, into memory during executionof software in the computer 800. The non-volatile storage can be local,remote, or distributed. The non-volatile memory is optional becausesystems can be created with all applicable data available in memory. Atypical computer system will usually include at least a processor,memory, and a device (e.g., a bus) coupling the memory to the processor.

Software is typically stored in the non-volatile memory and/or the driveunit. Indeed, for large programs, it may not even be possible to storethe entire program in the memory. Nevertheless, it should be understoodthat for software to run, if necessary, it is moved to a computerreadable location appropriate for processing, and for illustrativepurposes, that location is referred to as the memory in this paper. Evenwhen software is moved to the memory for execution, the processor willtypically make use of hardware registers to store values associated withthe software, and local cache that, ideally, serves to speed upexecution. As used herein, a software program is assumed to be stored atany known or convenient location (from non-volatile storage to hardwareregisters) when the software program is referred to as “implemented in acomputer-readable medium”. A processor is considered to be “configuredto execute a program” when at least one value associated with theprogram is stored in a register readable by the processor.

The bus also couples the processor to the network interface device. Theinterface can include one or more of a modem or network interface. Itwill be appreciated that a modem or network interface can be consideredto be part of the computer system. The interface can include an analogmodem, isdn modem, cable modem, token ring interface, satellitetransmission interface (e.g. “direct PC”), or other interfaces forcoupling a computer system to other computer systems. The interface caninclude one or more input and/or output devices. The I/O devices caninclude, by way of example but not limitation, a keyboard, a mouse orother pointing device, disk drives, printers, a scanner, and other inputand/or output devices, including a display device. The display devicecan include, by way of example but not limitation, a cathode ray tube(CRT), liquid crystal display (LCD), or some other applicable known orconvenient display device. For simplicity, it is assumed thatcontrollers of any devices not depicted in the example of FIG. 17 residein the interface.

In operation, the computer system 1700 can be controlled by operatingsystem software that includes a file management system, such as a diskoperating system. One example of operating system software withassociated file management system software is the family of operatingsystems known as Windows® from Microsoft Corporation of Redmond, Wash.,and their associated file management systems. Another example ofoperating system software with its associated file management systemsoftware is the Linux operating system and its associated filemanagement system. The file management system is typically stored in thenon-volatile memory and/or drive unit and causes the processor toexecute the various acts required by the operating system to input andoutput data and to store data in the memory, including storing files onthe non-volatile memory and/or drive unit.

Some portions of the detailed description may be presented in terms ofalgorithms and symbolic representations of operations on data bitswithin a computer memory. These algorithmic descriptions andrepresentations are the means used by those skilled in the dataprocessing arts to most effectively convey the substance of their workto others skilled in the art. An algorithm is here, and generally,conceived to be a self-consistent sequence of operations leading to adesired result. The operations are those requiring physicalmanipulations of physical quantities. Usually, though not necessarily,these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capableof being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwisemanipulated. It has proven convenient at times, principally for reasonsof common usage, to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements,symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like.

It should be borne in mind, however, that all of these and similar termsare to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and aremerely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unlessspecifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the followingdiscussion, it is appreciated that throughout the description,discussions utilizing terms such as “processing” or “computing” or“calculating” or “determining” or “displaying” or the like, refer to theaction and processes of a computer system, or similar electroniccomputing device, that manipulates and transforms data represented asphysical (electronic) quantities within the computer system's registersand memories into other data similarly represented as physicalquantities within the computer system memories or registers or othersuch information storage, transmission or display devices.

The algorithms and displays presented herein are not inherently relatedto any particular computer or other apparatus. Various general purposesystems may be used with programs in accordance with the teachingsherein, or it may prove convenient to construct more specializedapparatus to perform the methods of some embodiments. The requiredstructure for a variety of these systems will appear from thedescription below. In addition, the techniques are not described withreference to any particular programming language, and variousembodiments may thus be implemented using a variety of programminglanguages.

In alternative embodiments, the machine operates as a standalone deviceor may be connected (e.g., networked) to other machines. In a networkeddeployment, the machine may operate in the capacity of a server or aclient machine in a client-server network environment or as a peermachine in a peer-to-peer (or distributed) network environment.

The machine may be a server computer, a client computer, a personalcomputer (PC), a tablet PC, a laptop computer, a set-top box (STB), apersonal digital assistant (PDA), a cellular telephone, an iPhone, aBlackberry, a processor, a telephone, a web appliance, a network router,switch or bridge, or any machine capable of executing a set ofinstructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify actions to be takenby that machine.

While the machine-readable medium or machine-readable storage medium isshown in an exemplary embodiment to be a single medium, the term“machine-readable medium” and “machine-readable storage medium” shouldbe taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., acentralized or distributed database, and/or associated caches andservers) that store the one or more sets of instructions. The term“machine-readable medium” and “machine-readable storage medium” shallalso be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encodingor carrying a set of instructions for execution by the machine and thatcause the machine to perform any one or more of the methodologies of thepresently disclosed technique and innovation.

In general, the routines executed to implement the embodiments of thedisclosure, may be implemented as part of an operating system or aspecific application, component, program, object, module or sequence ofinstructions referred to as “computer programs.” The computer programstypically comprise one or more instructions set at various times invarious memory and storage devices in a computer, and that, when readand executed by one or more processing units or processors in acomputer, cause the computer to perform operations to execute elementsinvolving the various aspects of the disclosure.

Moreover, while embodiments have been described in the context of fullyfunctioning computers and computer systems, those skilled in the artwill appreciate that the various embodiments are capable of beingdistributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that thedisclosure applies equally regardless of the particular type of machineor computer-readable media used to actually effect the distribution.

Further examples of machine-readable storage media, machine-readablemedia, or computer-readable (storage) media include but are not limitedto recordable type media such as volatile and non-volatile memorydevices, floppy and other removable disks, hard disk drives, opticaldisks (e.g., Compact Disk Read-Only Memory (CD ROMS), Digital VersatileDisks, (DVDs), etc.), among others, and transmission type media such asdigital and analog communication links.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling,either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling ofconnection between the elements can be physical, logical, or acombination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,”and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall referto this application as a whole and not to any particular portions ofthis application. Where the context permits, words in the above DetailedDescription using the singular or plural number may also include theplural or singular number respectively. The word “or,” in reference to alist of two or more items, covers all of the following interpretationsof the word: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list,and any combination of the items in the list.

The above detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise formdisclosed above. While specific embodiments of, and examples for, thedisclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of thedisclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. Forexample, while processes or blocks are presented in a given order,alternative embodiments may perform routines having steps, or employsystems having blocks, in a different order, and some processes orblocks may be deleted, moved, added, subdivided, combined, and/ormodified to provide alternative or subcombinations. Each of theseprocesses or blocks may be implemented in a variety of different ways.Also, while processes or blocks are, at times, shown as being performedin a series, these processes or blocks may instead be performed inparallel, or may be performed at different times. Further, any specificnumbers noted herein are only examples: alternative implementations mayemploy differing values or ranges.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to othersystems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements andacts of the various embodiments described above can be combined toprovide further embodiments.

Any patents and applications and other references noted above, includingany that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporatedherein by reference. Aspects of the disclosure can be modified, ifnecessary, to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the variousreferences described above to provide yet further embodiments of thedisclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of theabove Detailed Description. While the above description describescertain embodiments of the disclosure, and describes the best modecontemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, theteachings can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may varyconsiderably in its implementation details, while still beingencompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As noted above,particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspectsof the disclosure should not be taken to imply that the terminology isbeing redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics,features, or aspects of the disclosure with which that terminology isassociated. In general, the terms used in the following claims shouldnot be construed to limit the disclosure to the specific embodimentsdisclosed in the specification, unless the above Detailed Descriptionsection explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope ofthe disclosure encompasses not only the disclosed embodiments, but alsoall equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the disclosure underthe claims.

While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certainclaim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of thedisclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only oneaspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under35 U.S.C. § 112, 916, other aspects may likewise be embodied as ameans-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied ina computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35U.S.C. § 112, 916 will begin with the words “means for”.) Accordingly,the applicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filingthe application to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspectsof the disclosure.

The detailed description provided herein may be applied to othersystems, not necessarily only the system described above. The elementsand acts of the various examples described above can be combined toprovide further implementations of the invention. Some alternativeimplementations of the invention may include not only additionalelements to those implementations noted above, but also may includefewer elements. These and other changes can be made to the invention inlight of the above Detailed Description. While the above descriptiondefines certain examples of the invention, and describes the best modecontemplated, no matter how detailed the above appears in text, theinvention can be practiced in many ways. Details of the system may varyconsiderably in its specific implementation, while still beingencompassed by the invention disclosed herein. As noted above,particular terminology used when describing certain features or aspectsof the invention should not be taken to imply that the terminology isbeing redefined herein to be restricted to any specific characteristics,features, or aspects of the invention with which that terminology isassociated. In general, the terms used in the following claims shouldnot be construed to limit the invention to the specific examplesdisclosed in the specification, unless the above Detailed Descriptionsection explicitly defines such terms. Accordingly, the actual scope ofthe invention encompasses not only the disclosed examples, but also allequivalent ways of practicing or implementing the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A wirelessly powered electronic display apparatusfor presenting communications to proximate users in a wireless powerdelivery environment, the apparatus comprising: a housing; an electronicdisplay disposed on the housing, the electronic display configured topresent display data to proximate users in the wireless power deliveryenvironment; one or more antennas situated within the housing, the oneor more antennas configured to wirelessly receive power and datasignals; and electronic circuitry situated within the housing andcommunicatively coupled to the one or more antennas and the electronicdisplay, the electronic circuitry configured to: harvest energy from thepower signals, process the data signals to determine the display datafor presentation to the proximate users, and direct the electronicdisplay to present the display data to the proximate users.
 2. Thewireless electronic display apparatus of claim 1, wherein the electroniccircuitry is further configured to identify a particular user that isproximate to the electronic display apparatus.
 3. The wirelesselectronic display apparatus of claim 2, wherein the electroniccircuitry identifies the particular user is proximate using a radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag.
 4. The wireless electronic displayapparatus of claim 3, wherein the RFID tag is embedded in a card.
 5. Thewireless electronic display apparatus of claim 2, wherein the electroniccircuitry identifies the particular user is proximate via a clientidentifier embedded in a power receiver client of a mobile deviceassociated with the particular user.
 6. The wireless electronic displayapparatus of claim 2, wherein the electronic circuitry is furtherconfigured to: access the particular user's purchase history; and directthe electronic display to present the particular user's purchase historyto the particular user.
 7. The wireless electronic display apparatus ofclaim 6, wherein the electronic circuitry is further configured to:access purchase recommendations for the particular user, wherein thepurchase recommendations are generated based on one or more of theuser's purchase history, items currently in the particular user'selectronic basket, and preferences of the particular user; and directthe electronic display to present the purchase recommendations to theparticular user.
 8. The wireless electronic display apparatus of claim1, wherein the display data comprises information associated with anitem or product, the information including one or more of itemdescription information, item pricing information, an aggregatedcustomer score or rating associated with the item, or customer reviewsassociated with the item.
 9. The wireless electronic display apparatusof claim 1, wherein the electronic circuitry is further configured tofacilitate payment processing functionality.
 10. The wireless electronicdisplay apparatus of claim 8, wherein the electronic circuitryfacilitates payment processing by one or more of: providing the userwith a QR code to facilitate payment via a mobile device capable ofscanning the QR code, or providing a near field communicationtransponder configured to facilitate payment via the wireless electronicdisplay apparatus.
 11. The wireless electronic display apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the communications are determined based on aggregatebehavior of users or pattern detection within a retail environment. 12.The wireless electronic display apparatus of claim 11, wherein thecommunications comprise demand-based pricing information.
 13. Awirelessly powered electronic display apparatus for presentingcommunications to proximate users in a wireless power deliveryenvironment, the apparatus comprising: a housing; an electronic displaydisposed on the housing, the electronic display configured to presentthe communications to the proximate users in the wireless power deliveryenvironment; one or more antennas situated within the housing, the oneor more antennas configured to wirelessly receive power signals and datasignals; electronic circuitry situated within the housing andcommunicatively coupled to the one or more antennas and the electronicdisplay, the electronic circuitry configured to: identify a particularuser that is proximate to the wireless electronic display apparatus,harvest energy from the power signals, process the data signals todetermine particular communications for presentation to the particularuser, and direct the electronic display to present the particularcommunications to the proximate user.
 14. The wireless electronicdisplay apparatus of claim 13, wherein the electronic circuitryidentifies the particular user is proximate using a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) tag or via a client identifier embedded in a powerreceiver client of a mobile device associated with the particular user.15. The wireless electronic display apparatus of claim 13, wherein theelectronic circuitry is further configured to: access the particularuser's purchase history; and direct the electronic display to presentthe particular user's purchase to the particular user.
 16. The wirelesselectronic display apparatus of claim 13, wherein the electroniccircuitry is further configured to: access purchase recommendations forthe particular user, wherein the purchase recommendations are generatedbased on one or more of the user's purchase history, items currently inthe particular users electronic basket, and preferences of theparticular user; and direct the electronic display to present thepurchase recommendations to the particular user.
 17. The wirelesselectronic display apparatus of claim 13, wherein the electroniccircuitry is further configured to facilitate payment processingfunctionality.
 18. A method of operating an electronic display apparatusfor presenting communications to proximate users in a wireless powerdelivery environment, the method comprising: wirelessly receiving, viaone or more antennas situated within a housing of the electronic displayapparatus, power and data signals; harvesting energy from the powersignals; processing the data signals to determine display data forpresentation to the proximate users; and directing the electronicdisplay to present, via a display situated with the housing, the displaydata to the proximate users.
 19. The method of claim 18, furthercomprising: identifying a particular user that is proximate to theelectronic display apparatus.
 20. The method of claim 19, furthercomprising: generating purchase recommendations associated with theparticular user based on one or more of a purchase history of theparticular user, items currently in the particular user's electronicbasket, and preferences of the particular user; and directing theelectronic display to present the purchase recommendations to theparticular user.